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Alternatives to Plastic Bottles

Plastic bottles could be harmful to your health, according to Discovery News. Bisphenol A (BPA) is used to help make plastics. In water bottles, the theory is, the BPA leaches into the drinking water and we absorb the harmful chemical. BPA is said to mimic our hormones, which, in large amounts, can cause a wide variety of health issues. Plastic bottles are also harmful to the environment. It takes oil to make plastic bottles, which means mining for the fossil fuel. That creates air pollution and continues our dependency on oil. Plus, according to Divester, it takes 450 years for one plastic bottle to decompose. But you can help the environment, and possibly your health, by finding alternatives to plastic bottles.

  1. Stainless Steel

    • Stainless steel water bottles are a great alternative to plastic bottles. These are reusable and do not contain BPA. Try ECOBAGS Reusable Stainless Steel Water Bottles. Make sure the stainless steel is not lined with epoxy as this will release BPAs. If you're not sure check with the manufacturer.

    Baby Bottles

    • Many baby bottles are made from plastic. The best alternative is to use glass baby bottles instead. Since they are not made from plastic they are BPA free and better for the baby.

    Filtered Water

    • Instead of buying and using plastic water bottles invest in a Brita water purifier. Use your own tap water and filter it. Use your stainless steel water bottle in place of the disposable plastic bottles.

    Water Jugs

    • Water jugs and coolers are simply large, plastic water bottles. Instead of having your water delivered use filtered tap water.

    Milk Bottles

    • Milk bottles are often made out of plastic. The best alternative to plastic milk bottles are glass milk bottles.

    Soda

    • If you buy plastic soda bottles it is time to switch to the alternative: aluminum soda cans. Instead of buying a 1 or 2 liter plastic soda bottle buy aluminum cans.

    Sippy Cups

    • Sippy cups for toddlers are often plastic bottles. Sigg offers a baby water bottle that is made from aluminum instead of plastic. These are great alternatives to plastic bottles for toddlers.

    Oil Containers

    • Vegetable, olive and other cooking oils are usually provided in plastic bottles. Buy cooking oil that is in glass or aluminum containers.

    Shampoo

    • Shampoos and conditioners are almost always in plastic bottles. These are more difficult to find, but Phyto offers shampoo in glass bottles.

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